The nitty-gritty: The big package shippers such as UPS and FedEx/Kinko's need your helping hands, but the small boutique around the corner selling hand-dipped chocolate-covered candies might, too. This behind-the-counter position calls for skill at fitting the right box or envelope to the item being shipped. Other duties: explaining the various shipping methods and rates to customers, knowing how to pack an item so it arrives intact, taking inventory, stocking shelves, weighing packages, entering computer data, applying proper insurance coverage, affixing labels, working a cash register, and arranging pickups and accepting deliveries. Plan on spending a good bit of your time upright and on the move. You might have to lift boxes up to 55 pounds. Remember: Bend at the knees.
The hours: Flexible and partial shifts during the rush season.
Median pay: The hourly wages run the gamut from $8.50 to $15 an hour based on experience.
Qualifications: You must be computer-literate. Retail experience manning a cash register helps. Background check is standard for most positions.

Kerry Hannon is a contributing editor for U.S. News & World Report and the author of What's Next? Follow Your Passion and Find Your Dream Job.